Time For Growth

Post date: Jan 05, 2015 2:20:33 AM

2014 was a new experience for me. First year playing country music and I like it. It is different, which is a change I was looking for. I think what I like most is the musicians that I'm playing with. Each and every one of them bring something special to the table that I like and appreciate. They play skillfully, and they've all studied their craft. You can feel it, you can hear it. There's not a lot of babying in the group. Learn a song when the leader asks us to, and be ready for it on the next gig. One thing about playing with professionals, you don't need lots of rehearsals. Although, we're not afraid of rehearsal, we just gel together and make the music happen!!!! Of course, I always feel like the weakest link in the group, although I get told that I'm holding it down swell. My goal for 2015 is to become more solid as a groove player, and to be a better soloist when it's time for me to express myself through my instrument. It seems like this is a never-ending goal of mine, and I do hear little progress. It's hard to give myself kudos when I know in my heart that I have not been as diligent as I could be in practicing. Amazing enough, I've just added a new instrument to my plate. Yep, Bass Clarinet!!! I did it to help my son, who plays clarinet, practice. Come to find out, I love this instrument. This is my first time playing a woodwind and it is so cool to me. Of course, I dig Marcus Miller, who also plays Bass Clarinet. I probably would not have even entertained the idea had it not been for him. Now I have to be more disciplined with my time so I can practice both instruments. Well, this year, 2015, is my time for growth!!!